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Kodaikanal, a picturesque hill station in Tamil Nadu, is not just famous for its stunning landscapes and serene environment but you can also find some of the best street food in Kodaikanal, which offers a blend of traditional South Indian flavours with a twist of local ingredients. From piping hot dosas to freshly made paniyarams, the street food in Kodaikanal is sure to tantalize your taste buds. This charming town has a lot to offer.
Top 10 Best Street Food In Kodaikanal
Some of the best street food in Kodaikanal is often missed by tourists. Read on to find things you cannot miss trying!
1. Piping Hot Dosas At Lake Road
Photo: Sachin Gupta / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Found commonly around Lake Road, the dosas in Kodaikanal are an absolute treat for breakfast lovers. Crisp on the outside and soft inside, they’re served with a variety of chutneys and sambar. Dosa vendors on the street offer them fresh off the tawa, and the aroma itself will draw you in. Some vendors even serve ghee roast dosa for an added flavour punch.
Popular Accompaniment: Coconut chutney and tangy sambar
Special Ingredient: Local spices for a unique twist
2. Savory Paniyarams From Local Stalls
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Paniyarams are small, round, savoury bites made from a fermented batter of rice and lentils. This popular street food in Kodaikanal is crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. Often served with spicy chutney, it’s a snack that’s hard to resist. You can find paniyaram vendors across many corners of Kodaikanal, especially near the bus stand area.
Serving Style: Served in a banana leaf
Must-Try Variation: Sweet jaggery paniyaram
3. Spicy Mirchi Bajji At Bryant Park
Photo: Vikeshmbhade / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
A walk near Bryant Park can be made even better with a bite of spicy mirchi bajji. These deep-fried, batter-coated green chilies are a crunchy, fiery snack that locals love. The street food in Kodaikanal wouldn’t be complete without this spicy delight, especially during cooler evenings when a hot snack is perfect. Enjoying these crispy treats while soaking in the beautiful surroundings creates an unforgettable experience for any food lover.
Preparation Style: Deep-fried in hot oil
Perfect Combo: Served with tomato sauce or tamarind chutney
4. Fluffy Idlis At Seven Roads Junction
Photo: Shalem Pravas Valaparla / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Soft, fluffy idlis are a staple in Tamil cuisine, and the street vendors at Seven Roads Junction serve them fresh every morning. Paired with piping hot sambar and a variety of chutneys, idlis make for a light yet satisfying meal. The subtle flavours of the idlis, combined with the tangy sambar and spicy chutneys, create a delightful harmony of taste. These delectable bites are perfect for breakfast or a quick snack while exploring the bustling streets of Kodaikanal.
Made With: Local rice varieties
Best Eaten With: Onion chutney or groundnut chutney
5. Masala Corn From Kodai Lake Stalls
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A visit to Kodaikanal isn’t complete without trying the roasted masala corn from the street-side stalls near Kodai Lake. The corn is roasted on an open flame and generously sprinkled with spicy masala, lime juice, and salt. It’s a simple yet flavourful snack, perfect for munching on while strolling around the lake. This delightful treat not only satisfies hunger but also adds to the scenic experience of Kodaikanal, making every bite a memorable part of your visit.
Key Ingredient: Fresh corn roasted on coal
Flavor Add-Ons: Lime juice, chili powder, and salt
6. Hot And Crispy Vadas At Coaker’s Walk
Photo: Rajesh dangi / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Coaker’s Walk is not only a scenic spot but also a haven for food lovers. The vadas here are crispy on the outside and soft inside. Whether you go for the classic medu vada or a masala vada, the taste and crunch make it an ideal street snack in Kodaikanal. Paired with a side of coconut chutney or spicy sambar, these vadas elevate your snacking experience to another level. As you take in the stunning views of the valley, each bite of these delicious treats becomes a cherished memory of your culinary journey in Kodaikanal.
Types Of Vada: Medu vada (lentil-based), masala vada etc
Best Pairing: With coconut chutney or sambar
7. Egg Biryani At Moonjikal Market
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Moonjikal Market is famous for its variety of street foods, and the egg biryani here is particularly popular. Prepared in large vessels, the biryani is infused with local spices, making it aromatic and flavourful. Served with boiled eggs and raita, this dish is a street food staple in Kodaikanal. As you enjoy this dish in the lively market atmosphere, it truly embodies the essence of street food in Kodaikanal, inviting both locals and tourists to indulge in its deliciousness.
Special Spice Mix: Local spices like star anise and cinnamon
Side Accompaniment: Raita or brinjal curry
8. Bhajji Platter At Bus Stand Area
Photo: Ishanya 1507 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
If you’re craving something crispy and indulgent, then a bhajji platter is your answer. Bhajji refers to vegetables dipped in chickpea flour batter and deep-fried until golden. The street vendors near the bus stand serve an array of bhajjis, from potato to onion and even plantain. The crunch and flavor make it an irresistible snack. Dipping these golden-fried delights in spicy green chutney or tangy tamarind sauce elevates the experience even further.
Types Of Bhajji: Onion, potato, banana
Flavour Enhancer: Tamarind or mint chutney
9. Parottas With Salna At Perumal Malai
Photo: Balanagaraj / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The flaky, layered parotta is another popular street food in Kodaikanal, particularly around Perumal Malai. Street vendors prepare fresh parottas and serve them with a spicy gravy called salna. The combination is a filling meal, loved by both locals and visitors. Each bite of the soft, buttery parotta, paired with the rich, flavourful salna, creates a delightful explosion of taste. Enjoying this dish while taking in the scenic views of Kodaikanal makes it a must-try experience for anyone exploring the area.
Texture: Crispy yet soft and flaky
Complementary Dish: Salna (spicy gravy made with tomatoes and meat)
10. Chocolate Fudge From Local Vendors
Photo: Jolene Van Laar / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Kodaikanal is well-known for its homemade chocolates, and the chocolate fudge sold by street vendors is a must-try. Rich, creamy, and indulgent, this fudge is made using locally sourced cocoa and is a perfect way to end your street food adventure in Kodaikanal. Each bite melts in your mouth, offering a delightful sweetness that complements the savoury snacks you’ve enjoyed throughout the day.
Main Ingredient: Locally sourced cocoa
Best Time To Eat: As a dessert or an evening snack
The best street food in Kodaikanal offers a diverse and delicious range of options that reflect the town’s rich culinary culture. From crispy dosas to sweet chocolate fudge, the street food in Kodaikanal is sure to satisfy your hunger and make your visit even more memorable. So, next time you’re in town, be sure to try these local favourites and indulge in a true gastronomic adventure! For an unforgettable experience, consider booking a tour with TripXL to guide you through the best culinary spots in Kodaikanal.
Cover Photo: Tiago Rosado / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
